South Bay Digest

R.H. Estates : Garbage Fee Raise OKd

The City Council has approved a request by Browning-Ferris Industries to raise residential garbage collection fees by 28% on Jan. 1.

The rate for residences with typical twice-weekly service will increase to $12.76 a month from $9.97. For condominiums and town homes, the once-weekly rate will increase to $8.81 a month from $6.88.

The 4-0 vote was taken after Browning-Ferris submitted financial statements showing a 28% increase in the company's disposal and transportation costs since it began contracting with the city on Jan. 1, 1985. Browning-Ferris did not request a rate increase in those two years.

The council also agreed to assume responsibility for hauling manure from the city's equestrian center on Crenshaw Boulevard after March 31, 1987.

The council asked the company to continue the manure disposal for three months until the city can determine whether it will handle collection or pay Browning-Ferris for the service.

Browning-Ferris has been hauling the manure but has not charged the city although it cost $22,500 a year, according to Charles Leonard, the firm's district manager.